Tottenham’s hopes of signing West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes have received an unexpected lift following devastating injury news from Manchester United.
United confirmed that Uruguay international Manuel Ugarte suffered a knee ligament injury during the World Cup, throwing the club’s summer plans into disarray.
Ugarte was carried off on a stretcher during Uruguay’s 1-0 group-stage defeat to Spain, a result that eliminated his nation from the competition.
Reports from Uruguay indicate that scans have confirmed an ACL tear, meaning the 25-year-old now faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Manchester United said in a statement: “Manchester United can confirm that Manuel Ugarte has suffered a knee ligament injury whilst representing Uruguay in Friday’s World Cup group-stage match against Spain.”
The club added: “Assessment of the injury is ongoing to determine the best course of treatment and the rehabilitation timescale. Everyone wishes Manuel a successful recovery and we will be supporting him every step of the way.”
Ugarte had been expected to leave Old Trafford this summer, having struggled to nail down a regular starting role since joining the club in 2024 for a fee that could rise to £50.5million.
With that anticipated sale now in serious jeopardy, United’s ability to fund a move for Fernandes could be significantly reduced, handing Spurs a clear financial advantage.
Tottenham, under Michael Carrick, had already been tracking Fernandes and could now find themselves with far less competition from Old Trafford in the race for the West Ham star’s signature.
A reduced bidding war could also drive down Fernandes’ asking price, potentially making the deal even more attractive for the north London club to complete.
United have already committed funds to strengthen their midfield elsewhere, with Atalanta’s Ederson poised to join in a deal worth an initial £35million plus £3.8million in add-ons.
The Brazilian is set to sign a four-year contract at Old Trafford, with an option to extend for a further year.
Ederson, who received a late call-up to Brazil’s World Cup squad following an injury to Wesley, confirmed the move was close to being finalised when speaking to Tuttosport.
He said: “It’s practically almost all sorted,” before adding: “I have to make the most of this moment. I am here and it is a wonderful thing, something you must always live to the fullest.”
With United’s resources stretched and their midfield in crisis, Tottenham look increasingly well-positioned to win the race for Mateus Fernandes before the summer transfer window closes.
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